Defense Mechanisms

What is the most basic and widespread psychological defense mechanism according to the text?

• Repression

• Denial

• Projection

• Rationalization

Denial is when we simply ____ to accept the truth of a fact or idea that is upsetting them. Fill in the blank.

• refuse

• rational

• emotional

• logical

Displacement in the context of psychological defense mechanisms refers to:

• the transfer of emotions from one object to another

• the refusal to accept reality

• the distortion of reality to reduce anxiety

• the return to an earlier stage of development

Historically displacement was referred to as 'kicking the dog.' What does this expression mean?

• It means taking out one's frustration on a less threatening target.

• It refers to a literal act of kicking a dog.

• It means showing affection to animals.

• It refers to a form of exercise.

Projection causes people to judge others for having negative behaviors or intentions that they themselves are frequently guilty of.

• True

• False

According to Freud's theory, regression involves behaving in an immature manner to cope with stress.

• True

• False

What is the defense mechanism where people often criticize or act cold toward the person they are attracted to?

• A) Rationalization

• B) Reaction Formation

• C) Repression

• D) Sublimation

Which defense mechanism involves explaining away an uncomfortable reality by inventing a logical-sounding alternate truth?

• A) Rationalization

• B) Reaction Formation

• C) Repression

• D) Sublimation

Repression is a defense mechanism that involves unconsciously blocking unpleasant emotions, thoughts, or memories from one's awareness. What is the primary effect of repression on the psyche?

• It leads to the conscious awareness of unpleasant emotions.

• It causes the individual to forget all memories.

• It results in the unconscious blocking of distressing thoughts.

• It enhances the recall of positive memories.

What is considered the healthiest of all defense mechanisms, where someone channels their urges into a constructive activity?

• A) Rationalization

• B) Reaction Formation

• C) Repression

• D) Sublimation